West African civil society organizations have underscored an urgent need for an inclusive dialogue and process for the restoration of democratic governance in Guinea.
The groups also urged National Rally and Development Committee (CNRD) to embrace and initiate dialogue with diverse sections of Guinean society and chart an inclusive process – with a clear transition timetable – to restore Guinea to the democratic path.
“While we acknowledge with dismay and disappointment the erosion of democracy in Guinea during the last few years leading to the September 5th, 2021 coup d’etat, we remain resolute in our disapproval of unconstitutional and undemocratic changes of government,” the groups expressed displeasure.
A press statement issued by West African civil society organizations and copied to News Ghana, further implored CNRD to put in place appropriate safeguards and processes to ensure respect for human rights and the rule of law.
And protection of the rights of media, journalists, and civil society, and an absence of attacks or excesses by the military against citizens and politicians.
The Groups also called on the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), African Union (AU), United Nations (UN), and the international community to work with CNRD and the Guinean people to help the nation navigate its way back to a democratic and constitutional status.
“While ECOWAS has already acted swiftly to condemn the coup and called for the restoration of democracy, we request that the regional body further ensure that all relevant national actors, including civil society groups, women associations, youth networks, and the opposition are given every opportunity to participate fully in any ensuing dialogue and transition process,” they added.
In this regard, we implore ECOWAS to take a firm stance against leaders who abuse their incumbency to manipulate constitutions or engineer constitutional changes to remove or modify presidential term limits in order to cling to power.
